Duterte defense maintains witness strategy amid impeachment trial

MANILA — The defense team representing Vice President Sara Duterte stated Tuesday that no changes to their trial strategy are warranted, reaffirming that their lawyers neither coach witnesses nor interfere with their testimonies during the impeachment proceedings.

Michael Poa, counsel and spokesperson for Duterte's defense team, made the assertion as the trial continued at the House of Representatives. The statement appeared to address concerns raised regarding the conduct of witnesses and the preparation of testimony presented in Duterte's defense.

Poa emphasized that the defense maintains professional standards in its interaction with witnesses, ensuring that testimonies are presented independently without improper influence from the legal team. He noted that the current strategy has proven effective and requires no modification as the trial progresses.

The Vice President faces impeachment charges in a process that has drawn significant public attention. The defense's insistence on maintaining its current approach suggests confidence in its legal positioning as both sides present evidence and witness testimony before the House committee conducting the trial.

The proceedings are expected to continue in the coming sessions, with both prosecution and defense presenting their respective cases before a final determination is reached.